Kistler and SACO Research combine expertise in passive vehicle safety

Heidelberg, June 2026 – The Kistler Group is strengthening its position in the field of passive vehicle safety through a partnership with the U.S.-based company SACO Research. Building on SACO Research’s experience in the development and manufacturing of components for crash test dummies (ATDs), Kistler is expanding its technology base in the field of passive vehicle safety – from measurement systems and instrumentation to anthropomorphic test devices and key components.

“This collaboration is an important step toward strengthening our ATD business and expanding our capabilities in the field of passive vehicle safety. By combining SACO Research’s component expertise and manufacturing know-how with Kistler’s strengths in market access, engineering, and customer support, we are creating a strong platform for future growth in crash test technology,” says Thomas Warkentin, General Manager of Kistler ATD GmbH and Head of the Crash Business Unit.

Partnership drives innovation in passive vehicle safety and crash test technology

The goal of the partnership is to bring additional crash test dummy expertise and expanded manufacturing capacity to the Kistler Group’s site in Heidelberg. For customers, this means long-term product availability, closer integration of development and manufacturing, and seamless access to Kistler’s global sales and service network. Existing orders from SACO Research will continue to be fulfilled; new inquiries and resulting orders will be handled immediately through Kistler’s global sales and service organization.

“We are pleased to take this next step together with Kistler and to contribute our expertise in ATD components and their manufacturing. We are convinced that this creates a strong foundation for our customers and the further development of ATD capabilities in Heidelberg,” adds Brian Coughren, President and Owner of SACO Research.

Expanding the portfolio with a focus on core passive vehicle safety applications

The partnership lays the foundation for the targeted expansion of the ATD portfolio and the associated component business in line with market requirements. Both parties will also collaborate on selected development activities related to Hybrid III 50th-male and Hybrid III 5th-female components to ensure product continuity and to tap into additional application areas. This marks another step forward for Kistler on its path to becoming a one-stop partner for vehicle safety and crash test applications – from sensor technology to complete ATD solutions.